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- Chicken and seasonings - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Salt and pepper to taste - Herbs and flavor enhancers - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 2 large lemons - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/4 cup chicken broth (or low-sodium broth) - Additional components for garnish - Fresh parsley, chopped When you gather these ingredients, you set the stage for a bright and tasty meal. The chicken breasts provide a great base, while the lemon and herbs add a fresh kick. I love using fresh garlic for that wonderful aroma. The olive oil helps the chicken cook nicely without sticking. Using dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil is key. They bring depth without overpowering the dish. The chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the sauce. Don't forget the parsley! It not only looks nice but gives a fresh taste at the end. This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for a busy day. You can find the full recipe and more tips to make this dish shine! Preparing the chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps the chicken sear better. Next, season both sides with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning brings out the chicken's flavor. Heating oil in the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking. This heat level helps create a nice crust on the chicken. Searing the chicken breasts: Once the oil is ready, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown color. This shows they are cooked well. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Sautéing garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until you smell the garlic. Make sure it does not burn. Burnt garlic can ruin the dish's taste. Adding lemon and herbs: Now, add the zest and juice of 2 large lemons, along with 1 teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, and basil. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth too. Stir everything well. This mixture creates a bright, zesty sauce. Simmering the chicken in the sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer in the lemon-herb sauce for about 3-4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors. Flip them halfway to ensure they get coated. Garnishing and serving suggestions: Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy this flavorful and simple meal! For detailed instructions, check the Full Recipe. To boost the taste of your skillet lemon herb chicken, start with great seasoning. Use fresh herbs when possible. They add bright flavors that dried herbs cannot match. If using dried herbs, remember to crush them in your hand before adding. This helps release their oils. Marinating the chicken is another key step. A simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs works wonders. Let the chicken sit in this mix for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight. This makes the chicken juicy and packed with taste. Getting the chicken texture just right is vital. Always dry the chicken with paper towels before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect golden crust. Heat your skillet until it is hot before adding the chicken. Sear each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender. When it comes to sides, consider fresh veggies or a light salad. Roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes pair nicely with the chicken. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a nice crunch. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine works well. Try a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, serve sparkling water with lemon slices. This complements the dish's bright flavors. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide on skillet lemon herb chicken. {{image_2}} You can switch up the herbs in your Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken. Try fresh rosemary, dill, or cilantro for a new taste. Each herb brings its own flair to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, use parsley or chives. For proteins, chicken breasts work well, but you can also use thighs. They add more moisture and flavor. If you prefer, try pork chops or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust the cooking time to fit the protein you choose. To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Most brands offer this option. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian spin. If you are on a low-carb or keto diet, skip the broth and use a bit of water. This keeps the dish flavorful without the carbs. You can also serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a tasty low-carb meal. These adjustments will keep your Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken delicious and diet-friendly. After enjoying your skillet lemon herb chicken, store any leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days when stored properly. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If the chicken has an off smell or a slimy texture, it's best to toss it. You can freeze skillet lemon herb chicken to enjoy later. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This chicken can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. Enjoy your meal again without losing any of the tasty goodness! How long does it take to cook chicken in a skillet? It takes about 12 to 15 minutes to cook chicken in a skillet. First, sear it for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Then, let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can use boneless thighs. They add a rich flavor and stay moist. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a bit longer. What can I substitute for chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, use vegetable broth or water. You can also add a splash of white wine for added flavor. How to fix overcooked chicken? To fix overcooked chicken, make a sauce. Use butter and broth to moisten it. Serve it with a flavorful sauce to add moisture back in. Can I double the recipe for a larger serving? Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches. This keeps the chicken from overcrowding and helps it cook evenly. How to adjust cooking time for thicker chicken breasts? For thicker breasts, increase cooking time by a few minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check when it reaches 165°F (75°C). What other herbs can I use for this recipe? You can use fresh herbs like rosemary or dill instead of dried ones. They add a fresh taste and enhance the dish's flavor. What to do if I don't have fresh parsley? If you don’t have fresh parsley, try using dried parsley or a mix of fresh cilantro or basil. They will still add a nice touch to the dish. Tips for reheating leftovers without drying out the chicken To reheat leftovers, use low heat. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to trap steam and prevent drying out. This guide gave you the key steps to make a tasty skillet lemon herb chicken. We covered everything from essential ingredients to cooking methods, making it easy for you to follow. Remember, seasoning is key, and don’t shy away from trying different herbs or proteins. With the right techniques and tips, you can enjoy this dish to its fullest. Whether you’re saving leftovers or experimenting with variations, the joy of cooking is in your hands. Happy cooking!

Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken

Savor the zing of Skillet Lemon Herb Chicken with this easy recipe! Juicy chicken breasts are beautifully seared and simmered in a delightful lemon herb sauce, making for a perfect weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that bursts with flavor. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Click to explore this mouthwatering recipe and bring a taste of sunshine to your table!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 2 large lemons

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup chicken broth (or low-sodium broth)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

    Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

      Sear Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

        Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

          Add Lemon and Herbs: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, basil, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

            Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Let them simmer in the lemon-herb sauce for about 3-4 minutes to absorb the flavors, flipping them halfway through.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4